The young lieutenant drew back haughtily.
"I refuse," said he, "to take the hand of a traitor to his State and kindred."
The hot blood flew to Fred's face, and he was on the point of making an angry retort, but controlling himself, he replied, "As you please," and turned away.
"Uncle Charles," he said, "I know you will not be so foolish. I am sorry—so sorry—to see you here. Can I do anything for you?"
The major groaned. "No, Fred, no. I am heartbroken. Oh! the disgrace of it! the disgrace of it!"
"Of what, uncle?"
"Of the surrender."
"You surely fought like heroes," gently replied Fred. "There is no disgrace in brave men bowing to the inevitable."
"And that fight was the worst of it," bitterly replied the major. "Every noble life lost was a useless sacrifice, sacrificed to the imbecility of our generals. But, Fred, this surrender means more; it means the giving up of Nashville. Oh, my family! my family! What will become of them? They will be wild with fear; they will flee penniless—flee I know not where."